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DictionarytemptationAttraction to an unwise choice
noun

temptation

temp-TAY-shuhn/tempˈteɪʃn/

An urge or appealing thing that draws someone toward an unwise or indulgent choice.

The cookies are a temptation while homework waits.

A child who should finish homework gazes longingly at a cookie jar just out of reach, notebook waiting.
Etymology
temptLatinto test; attempt to influence
+ationLatinaction or process

The underlying idea is trying or testing, which in moral contexts became enticing someone to sin. Temptation can name the inward experience of that pull, not just the act of enticing.

In context

David Diga Hernandez12:20
Maybe not blatantly sin themselves, but things that got you closer and closer and closer to giving in to that temptation.
Demonic Lies Too Many Christians Believe

More examples

  • He resisted the temptation to interrupt.
  • The discount created a temptation to buy more than she needed.
  • She gave in to temptation and read the final page first.

Forms

temptation · temptations

tempt verb — draw someone toward an appealing choice

tempting adjective — appealing enough to cause an urge

Similar words

urge
A strong impulse that need not involve something unwise.
enticement
An appealing offer or attraction encouraging an action.